Former President Joe Biden has been diagnosed with an aggressive form of Prostate Cancer. Well wishes are being echoed from across the political spectrum, with New York Governor Kathy Hochul saying, "President Biden has served our nation with distinction", adding that she and her husband were praying for a "speedy recovery". The World Telegram News will have more on this story as it breaks.
President Trump has also offered a statement, posting to Truth Social, "Melania and I are saddened to hear about Joe Biden's recent medical diagnosis. We extend our warmest wishes to Jill and the family, and we wish Joe a fast and speedy recovery."
The former president had a cancer scare previously in 2023, where a "basal cell carcinoma" – A cancerous skin lesion – was removed from his chest, and no further treatment was required.
Update: Official Statement from Frm. President Biden's Office
"Last week, President Joe Biden was seen for a new finding of a prostate nodule after experiencing increasing urinary symptoms. On Friday, he was diagnosed with prostate cancer, characterized by a Gleason score of 9 (Grade Group 5) with metastasis to the bone. While this represents a more aggressive form of the disease, the cancer appears to be hormone-sensitive which allows for effective management. The President and his family are reviewing treatment options with his physicians."
But...What is a Gleason Score of 9?
A Gleason score of 9 means a person has an aggressive form of prostate cancer. Doctors use the Gleason scoring system to rate how abnormal cancer cells look under a microscope, with scores ranging from 6 to 10—the higher the number, the more likely the cancer will grow and spread quickly. A score of 9 falls into the highest risk category and usually means the cancer is fast-growing. Treatment often includes a mix of hormone therapy, radiation, and sometimes surgery. The outlook depends on how far the cancer has spread, with better chances if it’s caught early and still confined to the prostate.
History of Health Conditions
Many have voiced concerns about the former President's health, considering other health scares dating back to the 1980s. During his time as senator for the state of Delaware, Biden underwent two brain surgeries in 1988 for brain aneurysms. HIs condition worsened during recovery, after he suffered a pulmonary embolism, which is a serious condition where a blood clot travels to the lungs and blocks an artery. He's had no recurrences since.
President Biden also fell victim to COVID-19, twice after testing positive in July 2022 and again in July 2024. He experienced mild symptoms and was treated with Paxlovid during both examples.
Once again, The World Telegram News will have more on this story as it breaks.
